Folding Fans of Japan: Telling Tales Through Art

This talk offers a rare glimpse into the exquisite world of Japanese fans. Apart from their functional use, the fans have also been used in cultural performances, rituals and as tools for storytelling. The speaker will also trace how the Japanese fan travelled to Korea and China, and then via the Silk Road to the West. About the speaker Kanji Ishizumi is a fifth generation member of the prestigious Ishizumi & Co, a maker of fine Japanese fans which exported a million fans a year from Kyoto in the early years of the 20th century. In 2002, the company donated the Giant Fan of 1892 to the British Museum which was displayed as the main piece in the museumâs Japanese gallery. Talk begins at 10am. No admission fee and registration required. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission charges to galleries apply. SPECIAL WORKSHOP! Using exquisite materials...